This whole thread is incredibly helpful! I'm new to CalWORKs (just started receiving benefits two months ago) and my caseworker never mentioned most of these issues or solutions. The fraud alert triggering from trying multiple ATMs is something I definitely would have done without thinking about it. I'm saving all these tips - the money order option, cashback at stores, calling the EBT line first before trying multiple ATMs, and even the credit union manual withdrawal option. It's frustrating that we have to learn all these workarounds through trial and error or from each other instead of being properly informed upfront. Really grateful for this community sharing real practical advice that actually helps navigate the system!

As someone who's been navigating CalWORKs for about a year now, I can't stress enough how important it is to save the EBT customer service number (1-877-328-9677) in your phone and call them FIRST when you have any card issues. I learned this the hard way after getting my card locked multiple times from trying different ATMs. One thing I didn't see mentioned - if you're ever completely stuck and need emergency cash, some county offices have emergency voucher programs where they can issue you a paper voucher for immediate use at certain stores. It's not widely advertised but it exists for situations where your EBT card is completely non-functional and you need food/essentials right away. You have to go in person and it's a bit of paperwork, but it can be a lifesaver in crisis situations. Also, for anyone new to the system - sign up for text alerts through the EBT website! They'll notify you about system maintenance, balance updates, and sometimes even when your card gets temporarily locked. Wish I had known about that feature from day one.

I'm having the same issue too! Tried 4 different ATMs this morning and none of them would let me withdraw cash even though my balance shows the money is there. This is so frustrating when you have bills due today. I'm going to try the grocery store cash back method that everyone's suggesting - hopefully that works! Thanks for posting this, at least now I know it's not just my card that's broken.

This happened to me last month too! The ATM issues are so common on benefit payment days. I found that smaller stores like corner markets and gas stations sometimes have better luck with EBT cash back than the big chain stores when the system is overloaded. Also, if you have a Chase or Bank of America nearby, their in-branch tellers can usually process EBT withdrawals even when their ATMs are down. Just bring your ID and EBT card. Hope everyone gets their money sorted out today!

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble getting electronic pay stubs from your employer, you can ask them for a "verification of employment" letter instead. It should include your hire date, hours worked, hourly rate, and gross pay for the last 30 days. Most HR departments can provide this pretty quickly and CalWORKs accepts it as income verification. I had to do this when my old job's payroll system was down and couldn't generate stubs. Also, don't stress too much about the bank account fluctuations - as long as your average balance stays well under that $10,000 limit, you should be fine. The workers understand that people need to save up for rent and bills. Good luck with your application!

One thing to keep in mind is that when you reapply, they'll also look at why your case closed originally. Since yours closed due to job loss but you're now employed again (even at lower pay), that actually works in your favor - it shows you're trying to work and just need temporary assistance. Make sure to mention that when you apply. Also, if you're having trouble affording basic needs while working, you might also qualify for CalFresh (food stamps) which has different income limits and could help stretch your budget further. You can apply for both programs at the same time through the same BenefitsCal application. The combination of Cash Aid + CalFresh + potentially other programs like Medi-Cal can really help bridge that gap when your job doesn't pay enough to cover all your expenses.

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! My worker missed THREE scheduled phone appointments and then had the audacity to send me a "failure to cooperate" notice. What finally worked for me was going directly to the county office and asking to speak with the CalWORKs Program Manager (not just a supervisor). I brought printed phone records showing no calls during the scheduled times, screenshots of my appointment confirmations, and copies of all their missed appointment letters. The Program Manager was horrified and immediately assigned me a new worker who actually follows through. She also made sure my case was noted as "county error" so my benefits wouldn't be affected. It took half a day out of my life but it was worth it to finally get someone competent. Don't give up - this is 100% their fault and you have every right to demand proper service!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - it's such a common problem and completely unacceptable! I've been navigating CalWORKs for about 2 years now and have learned some hard-won strategies. Here's what I recommend: First, document EVERYTHING with timestamps - screenshots of your appointment confirmation, photos of their missed appointment letter, and if possible, get your phone records from your carrier showing no incoming calls during that time slot. Second, try calling the main county switchboard (not the CalWORKs direct line) first thing Monday at 8am and specifically ask to speak with a CalWORKs Program Manager about filing a formal complaint. Third, send a message through BenefitsCal immediately stating you were available for your scheduled appointment but never received a call, and request that they note "county error" in your case file. If your benefits get interrupted because of THEIR mistake, you have grounds for a state hearing and can potentially get retroactive payments. The system is broken but don't let them make you feel like this is your fault when it clearly isn't. Stay strong and keep fighting for the services you're entitled to!

I just went through this same process about 2 months ago in Riverside County! I was approved on a Thursday afternoon and my cash aid loaded on the following Monday morning - so 4 calendar days total but only 1 business day since it was over the weekend. For your PIN reset, definitely call the EBT customer service line at 1-877-328-9677 instead of trying to reach your caseworker. I was able to reset mine in under 10 minutes once I got through to a representative. Just have your card number and SSN ready for verification. One thing I learned is to call early in the morning (around 6-7 AM) to check your balance - the automated system is much less busy then and you'll get through faster. Also make sure you're listening for your CASH balance specifically since you mentioned having CalFresh before - they'll be separate amounts on the same card. If you don't see the money by Tuesday, I'd definitely call your caseworker and ask about expedited processing since your rent is due. Sometimes they can flag urgent cases for faster payment, especially if you're at risk of eviction. The ebtEDGE app is also really helpful - you can set up notifications so you'll know immediately when the deposit hits your account instead of calling constantly. Hang in there! Getting approved is definitely the hardest part and you're so close to having that financial relief. Most people seem to get their cash within 3-5 business days, so you should be good by early next week.

Congratulations on your approval! I went through this same situation about 4 months ago in Fresno County. I was approved on a Wednesday and saw my cash aid load on Friday morning - so just 2 business days. The timing can definitely vary by county and how busy they are, but 3-5 business days seems to be the norm from what I've experienced and heard from others. Since you were approved yesterday (Thursday), I'd expect to see it by Monday or Tuesday at the latest. For your PIN reset, absolutely use the EBT customer service number (1-877-328-9677) instead of trying to reach your county worker. I had the same issue and they reset my PIN in literally 2 minutes once I got through. Way better than navigating county phone systems! One tip that really helped me - download the ebtEDGE app and set up balance alerts. That way you'll get notified the moment your cash posts instead of having to call constantly to check. Also, when you do call to check your balance, make sure you're listening for the CASH balance specifically since your food stamps and cash aid are separate amounts on the same card. Since your rent is due soon, you might want to give your landlord a heads up about the slight delay. Most are understanding if you communicate proactively rather than waiting until the last minute. Good luck - the hardest part is definitely behind you now that you're approved!